Sharon Hodgson’s Office Damaged in Suspected Arson Attack
Labour MP Sharon Hodgson’s constituency office in Washington, Tyne and Wear, has been severely damaged after a suspected arson attack. The incident, which took place overnight, left the building badly burnt out, with the roof destroyed and graffiti daubed on the side of the property. The graffiti, reading “328 days blood on your hands,” has raised concerns about the motivation behind the attack.
Police confirmed that shortly after midnight they were alerted to a fire at Vermont House, where Hodgson’s office is based. Emergency services quickly attended the scene, and thankfully no injuries were reported. Fire crews managed to contain the blaze, but drone footage revealed the scale of the destruction. A man in his twenties has since been arrested on suspicion of arson and criminal damage, and he remains in custody as investigations continue.
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In a statement, a spokesperson for Sharon Hodgson said that while the police inquiry is ongoing, there would be no speculation about the circumstances. However, it was stressed that violence has no place in society. The statement added that Hodgson would not be deterred and would continue serving her constituents in Washington and Gateshead South, encouraging residents to reach out to her office through the usual channels.
The response from colleagues in Westminster was swift. Labour MP Andy McDonald raised the matter in the House of Commons, expressing support and solidarity with Hodgson and her staff. He described the fire as appalling and said he was confident the entire House would join him in sending best wishes. The Foreign Office minister, Stephen Doughty, echoed this, saying the thoughts of MPs across the political spectrum would be with Hodgson, and he highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety and security of democratic representatives.
Locally, the emergency services were praised for their quick actions. Chief Fire Officer Peter Heath commended the crews for their professional response, which ensured that the fire was contained and that no casualties occurred. Councillor Phil Tye, chair of the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Authority, added his thanks to the firefighters and control staff, noting the challenges that lie ahead in the investigation.
Sharon Hodgson has represented Washington and Gateshead South since 2005 and currently serves as vice chair of Labour Friends of Israel. The attack on her office has been described as shocking and deeply concerning, reflecting broader worries about the safety of elected officials in the current climate. While the full motive behind the incident remains under investigation, what has been made clear is that she remains committed to carrying on her work, undeterred by this attempt to disrupt it.
This story continues to unfold, but for now, what stands out is the resilience shown by Hodgson and the united condemnation from across the political spectrum against such acts of violence.
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